What jobs can I get after a Diploma of Information Technology?

The rising growth of technological innovations has forecasted strong growth for Australia’s IT industry in the coming years to 2023. Specifically, 758,700 workers are estimated to make up the field within the timeframe, as detailed by the 2018 Australia’s Digital Pulse Report.

Program enrollments have also escalated in previous years, surging to a high of 31,411 (subject-only enrollments) in 2017 – a massive increase from 8,795 in the previous year.

With over 90% of new jobs in the next five years requiring more vocational education and training, these numbers will likely see a further increase – especially with Australia’s professional, scientific, and technical services (of which the ICT field comprises) ranked as a top industry for job growth.

With a Diploma of Information Technology considered a popular qualification for this pathway, we at Lumify Learn have detailed the top careers one can acquire with such valuable training.

ICT Support Officer

ICT support officers are responsible for assisting with the installation, maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of computer hardware and software. Much of their work includes setting up computer networks, website design and upkeep, adapting programs to meet user requirements, and ensuring optimum use of software and equipment.

The field is set to experience strong growth in the next five years, from 65,800 workers in 2018 to 77,900 in 2023, according to Job Outlook. Work can be found in most regions of Australia, with plenty of full-time work available.

A formal qualification in information technology is often required for this position, with many workers choosing to pursue VET (Vocational Education and Training) study.

Other skills required include a high-level knowledge of computers and electronics. Troubleshooting and maintenance of such technology is a primary responsibility – thus, skills in programming and knowing how various hardware, software, chips, circuit boards, and processors function is essential.

Since you’ll be tending to client needs, excellent skills in customer and personal service are also necessary.

Web Developer

Web developers perform the back-end programming, scripting, content creation and management required to build stable, effective websites and web applications. This is a highly creative and analytical role; as workers focus on the tools, utilities, and strategies necessary to maintain and produce a functional site, while considering visual elements for a pleasing user experience.

The industry has seen strong growth over the past five years, and is set to further increase in the coming years to 2023 – leaping from 15,000 in 2018 to 18,000 in 2023 (according to Job Outlook statistics).

Work can be found in many regions of Australia, with Victoria comprising a large share industry employment. Full-time work makes up the majority of roles.

While aspiring web developers can find work through technical competency alone (without formal qualifications), vendor or industry certifications are recommended to improve chances of employment. In fact, plenty of current workers hold a VET qualification.

Since much of this role involves understanding the visual, structural, and operational requirements to build a successful website (or application), skills in programming and operations analysis are essential. Good interpersonal skills are also required to communicate and collaborate with clients and network specialists.

Computer Network Professional

As a computer network professional, you’re responsible for analysing, strategizing, and recommending methods of building the optimum network structure for a business. Regular tasks may include the configuration and maintenance of computer hardware and software, offering support and technical improvements for best network performance.

The industry is a large one, set to only grow larger in the years to 2023. Employment for this role is expected to increase from 31,600 in 2018 to 35,200 in the five years that follow. Work is found in most regions of Australia, with most working full-time.

As with web developers, individuals can enter the field with no formal qualifications – as long as technical competency is adequately demonstrated. Vendor or industry certifications are highly regarded by employers, however, with many workers holding a VET qualification.

To succeed in this role, professionals must have a high-level knowledge of telecommunications and of various computer hardware and software. Skills in operations and systems analysis are also beneficial; these provide a full understanding of how networks function and the optimum design for best performance.

ICT Manager

ICT managers are in charge of an entire business’ computer and telecommunication system. These individuals plan, organise, and maintain existing networks, while seeking areas for further development. They’re also responsible for the security of such systems, and forming ICT policies, strategies, and plans with external or in-house specialists.

This role has experienced strong growth in the past five years; set to further increase in the next five. Employment is predicted to rise from 58,800 workers in 2018 to 67,000 in 2023. While work can be found in most regions of the country, New South Wales and Victoria hold the largest share of employment. Most also work on a full-time schedule.

Those entering the field typically hold a formal qualification with previous experience in management. About 19.8% of current employees have had certificate or diploma-level training.

To succeed in this role, excellent skills in leadership, administration, and management are required. Quality interpersonal skills are also a must, along with previous experience in customer service, sales, and marketing. Of course, an high-level understanding of computer systems and equipment is essential.

ICT Systems Administrator

An ICT systems administrator ensures that a business’ database management and operating systems are performing at their optimum capacity. This involves designing, configurating, and maintaining stable and efficient database structures and architecture; while guaranteeing security of all data files. As such, regular monitoring and troubleshooting is required to ensure the all computer systems, networks, and servers are functioning in their best condition.

This role has also experienced high growth in the past five years, and is set to further grow in employment in the years to 2023 – from 43,900 in 2018, to 47,300 in the five years that follow. Work can be found in most Australian regions with most in a full-time positions.

As with other careers on this list, one can pursue systems administration without a formal qualification. Employers can hire based on technical abilities alone, though previous training or industry credentials are highly regarded among candidates. Plenty of current workers in the field hold a VET qualification.

Of course, a thorough knowledge of computers networks, systems, and equipment is necessary to succeed in this field. Skills in the safety and security of digital data are also mandatory for employment. As you’ll likely be improving and further developing existing systems, skills in systems analysis, operations analysis, and programming are also beneficial.

Ready for a job in IT?

A Diploma in Information Technology can grant you that stepping stone you need to get started in the field. Here at Lumify Learn, we offer our very own Diploma of Information Technology to train you in the necessary skills across security, networking, management, administration, and more. Those interested in website building and design can also pursue our Diploma of Website Development.

Both courses offer vendor-certified, nationally-accredited training – and are delivered flexibly online to suit your personal schedule. Get your start in ICT today, and get in touch with our experts.